“Drunk” driver runs over teacher, boy in Argao

CEBU, Philippines - A public school teacher and his 11-year-old nephew died after a 10-wheeler truck ran over them Wednesday evening in Barangay Balisong, Argao.

Fermin Sardual, 28, was driving his motorcycle with his nephew, Andre, along the national highway when the delivery truck hit them.

The victims were dragged about five to 10 meters and were subsequently run over by the truck.

Truck driver Felixberto Ruba, 46, of Barangay Tingub, Mandaue City tried to escape but was intercepted in Barangay Banhigan, Dalaguete after the truck he was driving fell on its side while trying to maneuver away from a concrete fence.

Ruba was found to be drunk after a liquor test conducted at the Argao District Hospital, said Inspector Alejandro Batobalonos, Argao police chief.

Batobalonos said the victims were on board a Honda XRM motorcycle and were heading to a bakeshop not far from their residence when the deli-very truck hit them.

"Makaingon ko nga padung na gyud unta mohunong ang bitkima kay naka neutral na gud ang motor niya unya mao poy pag-abot sa truck nga nagpadung," Batobalonos told The FREEMAN.

The suspect was on his way to deliver assorted goods to Dumaguete City in Negros Oriental.

Ruba denied he was drunk but admitted he had a few shots of liquor. He also denied trying to escape.

The police have prepared criminal complaints for reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide against Ruba, who is now detained at the Argao Police Station.  (FREEMAN)